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Ms. Michele Denise Barnes, 53, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully following a brief illness at Trailpoint Village in South Bend on Wednesday, August 26, 2020 at 8:53 pm. She was born in Elkhart on December 23, 1966 and was the daughter of Percy (Dorothy) Moton and Doris F. Miles, both of Elkhart.

Also surviving are daughters Tiara Miller and Jacqueline Harris; grandchildren Arhmani and Cameron Branch, Talaijah Miller and Jalyiah Newburn and her brother Maurice Moton; all of Elkhart, and a host of extended family and good friends who loved her very much, including her faithful Bichon Frise Max, who is missing her at home. A special blessing also goes out to all of the friends and family she had in Missouri, where she also lived over the years. A brother, Derrick Conner, precedes her in death.

Michele's life will be celebrated with a homegoing service scheduled for 12:00 noon on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart. Viewing will begin there at 11 am. Pastor David Land will officiate, and cremation will follow the services in accordance with the family's wishes.

Michele will be best remembered for her kind heart, her love for her family and the fact that it was just plain fun to be around her. She grew up being a "daddy's girl", but along the way she acquired almost super-human skills in the kitchen which were always attributed to her mom, Doris. Friends, family and generally everyone downwind would always come knocking whenever Michele had a batch of chicken and dressing in the oven.

She loved her daughters but was crazy about her grandkids and loved to spoil them and love on them in a way only a grandma can understand. In fact, her naturally kind heart won her many friends.

Memorial donations may be given to the charity of one's choice. You are encouraged to share Michele's obituary, leave online condolences, or order memorial tributes by following the prompts on our website. Thank you so much for your interest in Michele's story.